As the European Championships in Tarragona approach, Márk Dévay heads to Spain carrying solid form, valuable confidence and a clear focus on the task ahead.

The 2022 Aquathlon World Championwill always be a threat in the early stages of the race exiting the water normally in the front pack. 

The Hungarian athlete has enjoyed a consistent start to the 2026 season, highlighted by a memorable medal-winning performance in Quarteira earlier this year. While his preparation for Tarragona has been relatively straightforward, Dévay believes consistency has been the key.

'I have been at home since Quarteira, except for Alghero,' he explained. 'The race is part of my racing block this summer as I haven't raced the European Championships since 2022. It has been consistent training, nothing extraordinary, just solid work.'

Dévay’s last appearnce in the European Championships in Munich saw him finish just outside the top ten. 

That steady approach has already paid dividends. Dévay’s podium finish in Quarteira was particularly meaningful, not only for the result itself but because of his personal connection to the venue.

'It was always on my bucket list to medal in Quarteira as it is one of my favourite places of all time,' he said. 'It was a good week of enjoying the place and having the race there.'

Now attention turns to Tarragona, where a strong field awaits. While many athletes have already crossed paths throughout the season, Dévay remains focused on his own performance rather than studying the competition too closely.

'I don't know the field's potential very much but the usual 'we will see' is a good answer, I reckon,' he said. 'The course doesn't look particularly interesting so it's down to us to make it exciting. I will race as I always race and will see the result.'

The European Championships are part of a demanding summer schedule, although Dévay has made adjustments to ensure he can maintain a balance between racing and recovery. He has opted to skip Quiberon after Tarragona, reducing the load during an already packed period of competition.

'It isn't easy, so I have to make sure I do use off days to do something different,' he said. 'Just the other day I went go-karting.'

For Dévay, success over the coming weeks is not defined solely by results.

'Successful would be to leave every venue satisfied.'

Looking further ahead, the road to the LA28 Olympic Games is already underway, but Dévay is careful not to become consumed by long-term goals at the expense of the present season.

'I am in a good position, I have good chances, but it isn't on my mind 24/7,' he said. 'I am focusing on the next step and the season ahead so it's important not to get carried away.'

With confidence from Quarteira, a strong training block behind him and a measured approach to the season, Dévay arrives in Tarragona ready to put himself in the mix once again and see where the racing takes him.